Social Work & The Law

Catalog description

This course familiarizes social work students with the justice systems that govern the lives of many of our clients, specifically the child welfare, juvenile justice, and criminal justice systems - with flexibility based on the interests of the students. The intent of this course is to help social workers understand the law and legal systems in order to be more effective practitioners, clinicians and advocates. It will provide students with information on the legal rights of individuals, confidentiality, pertinent laws, and legal processes, as now more than ever, social workers are needed to help improve our justice systems. Social justice learning and growth will play a role throughout each class, and students will gain both practical and clinical skills to enhance their ability to support and to advocate for their future clients, including legal writing, forensic interviewing, assessments, advocacy, and testifying. Through role plays, group activities, case discussions, and a mock trial, students will understand the professional dynamic between lawyers and social workers, including their differing views and ethical systems, as well as how to collaborate to ensure best outcomes for clients in court.